Boeing, Travel Service Finalize Order for Three 737 MAXs

SEATTLE, Aug. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Travel Service have finalized an order for three 737 MAX 8s, valued at $301.5 million at list prices. The Czech Republic-based carrier originally announced a commitment to purchase the 737 MAX in June during the 2013 Paris Air Show. Today's announcement brings the total number of orders to date for the 737 MAX to 1,498 airplanes.

"In recent years, Travel Service has gone from strength to strength by building a fleet based on highly reliable and versatile Next-Generation 737s," said Roman Vik, general director, Travel Service. "The addition of the 737 MAX to Travel Service will enable our business to continue on this upward trajectory, bringing improved efficiencies to our fleet."

The 737 MAX will be 13 percent more fuel-efficient than today's most efficient single-aisle airplanes and 8 percent more fuel-efficient per seat than tomorrow's competition. The configuration includes new LEAP-1B engines from CFM International that are optimized for the 737 MAX, a redesigned tail cone and the Boeing designed Advanced Technology Winglet to reduce fuel use. Other changes incorporated include upgrades to the flight deck displays, an electronic bleed air system and fly-by-wire spoiler flight controls.

"The 737 MAX will be an excellent fit for Travel Service, enabling the carrier to continue to expand its ever-increasing route network," said Todd Nelp, vice president of European Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The unmatched economics of the 737 MAX, coupled with the Boeing Sky Interior, will ensure that Travel Service continues to stand out from the competition."

Travel Service offers charter flights to more than 230 airports on four continents, as well as low-cost scheduled services to major European destinations through its Smart Wings brand.

Travel Service currently operates 28 Next-Generation 737s, which include both direct deliveries from Boeing, as well as leased airplanes.